Bronny James Opens Up About Overcoming Mental Health Struggles

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Wright | Last updated Dec 28, 2024 1:14 PM ET

While critics have been quick to judge Bronny James's NBA start, the 20-year-old Lakers guard faces challenges that go far beyond the box score. In a recent interview, LeBron's eldest son revealed his ongoing battle with mental health issues stemming from his cardiac arrest in July 2023:

"Trying to get past that... It's difficult, but I'm trying to work at it every day."

The timing of Bronny's health scare couldn't have been worse for his development. Once projected as a lottery pick, Bronny collapsed during a practice, derailing what should have been a showcase freshman season at USC. After undergoing treatment for congenital heart disease, his draft stock plummeted, leading to the Lakers selecting him 55th overall in 2024. Nevertheless - looking back on the situation - Bronny is not bitter about his draft position, but grateful to be alive and able to play the sport he loves:

"My family, my parents, they are extremely thankful that I'm not only able to play basketball but also just walk around and speak to other people... It's a blessing to be able to play this sport that I love. There's a chance I wasn't going to be able to. So, I wake up, and I'm thankful for that every day."

Although his NBA numbers have been less than modest (0.6 points, 0.1 rebounds, 0.3 assists), Bronny's showing signs of life in the G League. Through seven games with South Bay, he's averaging 13.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, including a career-high 30-point outburst on December 12.

"I'm just showing up every day, trying to get better every day, trying to learn every day, and playing my game every day," the young guard said. Beyond the stats and scrutiny, Bronny's journey is becoming a story of both physical and mental resilience.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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